Transfer Campground
4.7732 reviewsSan Juan National Forest, Mancos, CO 81328, USA
Transfer Campground
$24.00 - $75.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$24.00
Hookup Site Fee$0.00
Premium Site Fee$0.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00
Group Site Fee$75.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
Fees range from $24/night for standard nonelectric and equestrian sites to $75/night for the group campsite. Additional fees may apply for day-use areas and reservation services.
About this campground
Tucked away in the heart of the San Juan National Forest, Transfer Campground offers a tranquil escape just 11 miles north of Mancos, Colorado. This intimate, lesser-known gem welcomes adventurers with 12 first-come, first-serve family campsites nestled beneath a canopy of quaking aspens, plus one reservable group site perfect for larger gatherings. Whether you're drawn to explore the winding Aspen Loop Trail on foot, navigate the educational Big Al Interpretive Trail, or seek more adventurous pursuits on horseback, mountain bike, or ATV, Transfer serves as your gateway to endless outdoor experiences in this pristine corner of Colorado.
Transfer Campground accommodates various types of campers with 12 family sites and one group site. Nearby equestrian sites cater to horse users.
Historical SignificanceThe land surrounding Transfer Campground whispers with ancient stories. Just a short drive away, the charming historic town of Mancos serves as a living testament to the region's rich heritage, while the nearby Jackson Gulch Reservoir offers both recreation and reflection. This landscape once echoed with the footsteps of the Ancestral Puebloans, who called these mountains home from AD 1 to AD 1300, leaving behind a legacy that still captivates modern visitors exploring their ancient homeland.
Weather and SeasonsSummer days at Transfer Campground unfold under brilliant Colorado blue skies, with comfortable temperatures reaching the mid-70s°F before cooling to crisp 50°F evenings perfect for campfire stories. The dry mountain air keeps humidity at bay, though wise campers know to watch for dramatic afternoon thunderstorms that roll across the peaks. As autumn arrives, the aspens burst into golden flames, while winter transforms the landscape into a snow-laden wonderland that may limit access but rewards the intrepid with stunning solitude.
ElevationPerched at 8,500 feet above sea level, Transfer Campground invites you to experience the exhilarating embrace of high-altitude camping. Here, the air carries a refreshing crispness that awakens your senses, while the thinner atmosphere reminds lowlanders to pace themselves as they adjust. This elevated paradise offers naturally cooler temperatures that provide sweet relief from summer heat, making every breath of pine-scented mountain air feel like a gift.
Natural Features and SceneryAt 8,500 feet, Transfer Campground immerses you in a living cathedral of quaking aspens whose leaves dance and shimmer with every mountain breeze, creating nature's own symphony. The morning chorus of native songbirds provides your wake-up call, while the gentle whinny of horses from nearby corrals adds a touch of Western charm to the soundscape. This peaceful sanctuary showcases the raw beauty of Colorado's mountainous terrain, where each vista reveals layered peaks stretching to the horizon.
Geological RegionTransfer Campground sits within the majestic San Juan National Forest, a geological wonderland sculpted by millions of years of volcanic activity and glacial carving. At 8,500 feet elevation, you'll find yourself surrounded by groves of aspen trees that have claimed the mountainsides, their white bark standing in striking contrast to the dark evergreens. The dramatic Colorado peaks that frame your camping experience tell the story of ancient upheavals and patient erosion, creating the breathtaking mountain terrain that defines this corner of the American West.
Campsite details
AccessibilityBarrier-free camping is available in the family sites.
Sites SizeThe parking spaces are described as small but able to accommodate some RVs, suggesting standard-sized campsites.
Sites PrivacyUser reviews often mention quiet and private camping spots, with trees providing natural seclusion. One user noted, 'Hidden gem, quiet, private RV sites.'
Total Campsites13 campsites
Recommended CampsitesFor privacy and quiet, choose campsites away from the group site. Campsites near the edges provide better views of the surrounding forest.
Best CampsitesCampsite 001 and 007 are highly rated for their serene settings and proximity to trails.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
11:00 AM
Check-out
12:00 PM
Stay Limit
Maximum of 14 nights per stay.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Group sites accommodate larger groups, family sites allow up to 8 people.
Groups
The reservable group site includes five double picnic tables, a serving table, cooking grills, and a vault toilet. The site accommodates larger groups.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutThe campground includes 12 family campsites arranged informally, and one separate group site. Horse corrals are adjacent to the campground.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen May 9th to September 27th, reservable June 25th to September 27th.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made on Recreation.gov or its app.
Walk-in AvailabilityLimited availability for first-come, first-serve sites. User reviews suggest these campsites can be half full even on weekends.
Cancellation PolicyIndividual campsites: $10 cancellation fee if canceled at least 2 days prior; forfeiture of first night's fee for cancellations made less than 2 days before start. Group sites: $10 cancellation fee and forfeiture of the first night's fee if canceled less than 14 days prior. No-shows incur a $20 fee and forfeit the first night's rate.
Accomodation available
GroupGroup campsites are offered for larger parties such as families, schools, or organizations. These sites provide space and facilities to accommodate multiple people camping together.
Amenities available
Potable water
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
Transfer Campground offers recreational opportunities for horseback riding, hiking, mountain biking, and ATV riding. Numerous trailheads are accessible nearby, including Big Al Interpretive Trail and Rim Trail. The campsite is also close to Jackson Gulch Reservoir, which supports fishing and boating activities.
Hiking
Several trails are accessible from the campground, such as Big Al Interpretive Trail, Rim Trail, and Box Canyon Trail. More trails, including Chicken Creek Trail, Morrison Trail, and Gold Run Trail, can be found in the surrounding area.Climbing
Climbing opportunities may be available in nearby natural areas such as rocky outcrops, boulders, or cliff faces. Visitors should bring appropriate gear and check local regulations or park guidelines before attempting any climbs.Fishing
Fishing is available at Jackson Gulch Reservoir, located six miles south of the campground.Biking
Mountain biking trails are available, and the nearby Aspen Loop Trail is popular for motorbikes and ATVs.Boating
Boating is accessible at Jackson Gulch Reservoir.Wildlife viewing
Wildlife viewing opportunities include mule deer grazing around campsites, as mentioned in user reviews.Cultural and Educational Programs
Visitors can explore nearby Mancos to learn about Ancestral Puebloans who lived in the area between AD 1 to 1300.Winter Activities
No winter-specific activities noted.Water Sports
Kayaking and windsurfing have been reported at Jackson Gulch Reservoir during early June.Campground rules
- Pets are not allowed
- Campfires are allowed within designated fire rings. Some reviews mention the fire rings are tall, requiring larger fires.
- Quiet hours are generally observed after 10:00 PM.
Hazards
General hazardsPotential risks include rough dirt roads with potholes and washboarding; occasional wildlife including deer and cows breaching fences.
Weather forecast
53
°F
Aug 24
Sunday
Overcast
Precipitation: 0%
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Humidity: 61%
Moderately humid conditions
Wind: 4.1 mph
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Overcast
7-Day Forecast
Access to 7-day forecasts tailored to each campground—covering temperature, precipitation, wind, and sky conditions.
Daily & Hourly Insights
View hourly forecasts with expected weather patterns throughout the day.
Temperature Trends
Visualize how temperatures shift over the month to help pick the most comfortable days for your trip.
Precipitation Trends
Plan around rain or snow with monthly visualizations of expected precipitation patterns.
Weather Summaries
Assess conditions with visuals for easier decision-making on when and where to camp.
Weather data powered by Open-Meteo
Emergency Services
Closest hospital: Southwest Memorial Hospital in Cortez (~25 miles); Ranger station: San Juan National Forest office in Mancos (~11 miles); Police station: Montezuma County Sheriff in Cortez (~25 miles).
Good to know
Peak season datesMay 9th to September 27th.
Trash and recyclingNo organized trash or recycling facilities exist; campers are responsible for packing out their own waste.
Proximity to water featuresJackson Gulch Reservoir is located 6 miles south of the campground, offering fishing and kayaking opportunities.
Common complaintsSome campers noted rough gravel roads and noise from nearby ATVs as minor inconveniences.
HostNumerous reviews praise the camp host, Dan, for his friendliness, helpfulness, and cleanliness. Visitors noted clean restrooms and well-maintained sites.
Campground Map
San Juan National Forest, Mancos, CO 81328, USA
Driving directionsFrom Mancos, CO: travel 1/4 mile north on Hwy 184, turn right on West Mancos Road (Forest Road 561) and travel 10.5 miles to the campground. Most of the road is unpaved, but has a good gravel surface. PLEASE NOTE that the Horse Sites are located before reaching the campground on the opposite side of the road off FSR 561, a totally separate area.
The road is mostly unpaved but has a good gravel surface. However, user reviews noted rough sections with potholes and washboarding, which can require slow driving.Nearby places
Mancos: 11 miles (~15 minutes driving time)
Durango: 30 miles (~40 minutes driving time)
Cortez: 25 miles (~30 minutes driving time)
Nearby supplies
Groceries, camping supplies, and fuel are available in Mancos (11 miles) and Cortez (25 miles).
Camper Reviews
4.8
32 reviews
Transfer Campground is top-rated, placing it in the top 15% of campgrounds based on reviews
Overall, reviews highlight the campground's cleanliness, scenic location, and helpful camp hosts.
Review Summaries
Based on 32 reviews
What Campers Love
Clean facilities, quiet atmosphere, proximity to hiking trails, and exceptional camp hosts are frequently mentioned.
Based on 32 reviewsCommon Concerns
Road conditions are often described as rough, with potholes and washboarding. Some users have expressed dissatisfaction with ATV noise nearby.
Based on 32 reviewsPro Tips & Recommendations
Take it slow on the dirt road leading to the campground. Bring all necessary supplies, as trash removal is not provided. Consider early June for kayaking and windsurfing at Jackson Gulch Reservoir.
Based on 32 reviewsSeasonal Insights
Summer reviews often highlight mule deer sightings and warm, dry weather. Early-season reviews mention kayaking and windsurfing opportunities.
Based on 32 reviewsCamper Quotes
1. 'The toilets were cleaned EVERY day, to the point you couldn't tell they were pit toilets.' 2. 'Dan the camp host went above and beyond. Good facilities for our horses at the horse campground.' 3....
Based on 32 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
Site 001 in the Transfer Loop is regularly praised for its cleanliness and accessibility. Site H03 in the Equestrian Loop is noted for its great access to trailheads.
Based on 32 reviewsAccessibility Features
Barrier-free camping is available at the family sites, and vault toilets provide accessible restroom options.
Based on 32 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
No specific reviews address pet policies or experiences.
Based on 32 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025